The Truth About Dragons
A solid fantasy adventure that balances world-building with a clear character arc about bravery and truth.
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The Magician's Nephew
by C. S. Lewis
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 780L · 2020
A prequel that works beautifully as entry point: less battle-heavy than The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe, grounded in a real child's moral struggle, and the world-creation arc is genuinely awe-inspiring—though Jadis's arrival carries real menace.
Never Ever After
by Sue Lynn Tan
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 780L · 2025
A solid fantasy quest that centers Asian representation without exoticizing it—accessible magic system, real stakes, and a heroine who grows into her own power rather than being chosen by destiny alone.
The Conference of the Birds
by Ransom Riggs
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 780L · 2020
A smart, visually inventive middle-grade fantasy rooted in Persian poetry that respects both adventure and emotional interiority—Riggs's character work elevates it above standard chosen-one fare.